Model 1864 Joslyn Carbine / SOLD

Model 1864 Joslyn Carbine - Inventory Number: RIF 187 / SOLD

Second Model Joslyn Carbine, referred to by collectors as the Model 1864. The carbine used an innovative breechloading, single-shot, .52 caliber rimfire system invented and patented by Massachusetts gun designer Benjamin Franklin Joslyn in 1861 and manufactured by the Joslyn Fire Arms Company of Stonington, Connecticut. Joslyn’s unique loading arrangement consisted of a pivoting the breechblock with opened via a knob on its right side and a spring-loaded firing pin. The Model 1864 featured some design improvements like a stronger breech block latch, shrouded firing pin, a rechambering to .56-52 Spencer Rimfire, and iron furniture rather than brass. However, Joslyn’s single-shot design was not as popular as the Spencer’s repeating multi-shot rimfire capability and suffered from case extraction issues.  Ultimately more than 11,000 of the 1864 pattern carbines were purchased by the Union. Confederate General John Hunt Morgan was killed by a member of the 13th Tennessee Cavalry (US) with a Model 1864 Joslyn.

This example bears the serial number 15532 on the top of the breechblock and barrel tang.  The rear of the breechblock under the firing pin is marked “B. F. JOSLYN’S PATENT / OCT 8 1861 JUNE 24 1862.” The lock is marked “JOSLYN FIRE ARMS Co. / STONINGTON CONN. / 1864” All iron surfaces exhibit a dark plum brown patina. The bore is somewhat dark and pitted but retains sharp rifling. The M1864 Joslyn carbine has a 22” long barrel fitted to a one-piece walnut sock in solid condition but showing evidence of past sanding. Overall, a nice representative example and a must-have addition to a Civil War carbine collection.

Inventory Number: RIF 187 / SOLD